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As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming Episodes:

December 1: On A Mission
The Father of Juicing Fights Back – He’s 87, still vibrant and still on a mission. Just don’t call Jay Kordich the Juiceman anymore. A legal battle took the name from him but not his spirit or his conviction. He believes raw juices saved his life more than 60 years ago. See why he’s been shouting it to the world ever since. Life Lessons From Coach Bill – Growing Bolder Vice President Bill Shafer spends his days guiding the GB team and his nights and weekends molding lives on his son’s youth hockey team. We followed Coach Bill and his team as they battled for a spot in their league’s championship and discovered what they learned off the ice may be more important than any final score at the rink. Man on a Mission – Mr. Bill is on a very serious crusade; to improve the lives of families in need. His job at the Second Harvest Food Bank in Orlando, Florida, is often back-breaking work, but Mr. Bill does it all with a smile. Hear what keeps him going.

December 8: True Grit
What’s SUP? – We had to know what’s SUP after receiving an email that read, “At 46 years old, I took a BOLD move, quit my 19+ year safe and secure job with the Florida Lottery and started living my dream.” That got our attention. We had to know more. We found a family living their dreams and helping others discover a new FUN way of exercising — at any age. Eclectic Collector – Everybody likes to collect things, but what if those things get out of hand? What if they take over everything? Audrey Lentz has always had an eye for things that please her. From Howdy Doody to the present day, from pinball to pez, she has an amazing collection. But what sets her apart is, her home… her ENTIRE home is her display case! True Grit – From the outside looking in, Tom Ross has it all — a high-powered job, Broadway plays in New York and downhill runs in Utah. From the inside looking out, the view is much different. When he came to a crossroads in life, he chose to start growing bolder.

December 15: Gospel Of Good
From Broadway to Busts – Lawrence Holofcener wrote for Sid Caesar’s “Your Show of Shows,” Sammy Davis Jr. and Merv Griffin. After becoming one of the top songwriters around, he decided to walk away and take another risk — he wanted to be an actor. Not only did he become an actor, he made his debut on Broadway in “Stop the World, I Want to Get Off.” He even went on to star in “Hello, Dolly!” with Carol Channing and in “Fiddler on the Roof.” Now, at the age of 85, he’s a respected painter and sculptor. One of his most famous pieces is a tourist destination in London. He’s used two simple words to guide him through his amazing life: why not? Gospel of Good – With the daily news filled with stories of unethical businessmen and out-of-control corporate greed, we’re happy to shine the light on a Fortune 500 company and a retired CEO who are proving that giving back is the best way to move forward. The Most Vibrant 107-Year-Old in the World – At 107, Wilhelmina Hoorn raises the bar of what’s possible to a whole new level! Come celebrate her birthday with a woman who has lived around the world and seen great hardships and great joy. Plus, her birthday is made even more special by the fact that she gets to celebrate it with five generations of her family, including her three feisty daughters — all in their 80s themselves.

December 22: Born To Dance
With the Greatest of Ease – 67-Year-Old Joe Johnston is a champion at track and field, and the pole vault is his specialty. He flies through the air with the greatest of ease, but he’s no circus performer. Joe says he has the secret to life, and he’s sharing it with Growing Bolder. So She Thought She Could Dance – Thanks to the popularity of dance shows on network TV, dance studios around the country are busier than they’ve been in decades. Many more people would love to take lessons but worry about embarrassing themselves. By all accounts, Quin Bommelje was so bad when she first started, her teacher and even her husband couldn’t bear to watch. She had a hard time to keeping time to the beat. Now, her younger dance partner has a hard time keeping up with her! Final Resting Place – It’s art. It’s a memorial. It’s grandma’s cremated remains! We’re all about living and normally wouldn’t cover the National Funeral Directors Convention, but we heard the industry is changing rapidly. We promise, this story isn’t depressing. A little weird? Yeah, we’ll give you that. From launching your loved one’s ashes into space to tucking them into the barrel of a hunting fan’s shotgun, we’ll give you unusual ideas for a final resting place.

December 29: Take Second Chances
Famous Face – His life was one of abuse and rejection. The more he suffered, the stronger his resolve. No one believed in him, until a chance meeting with a fledgling talk show host changed everything. Now, after 20 years as Oprah Winfrey’s personal makeup artist, Reggie Wells is set to soar. Roderick Sewell – Just a few years ago, Roderick Sewell was a homeless teenager with no legs who was failing school. Today, he’s a world-class athlete, attends college and he’s set his sights on a big goal — making the Paralympics team. His life started turning around when he got involved with the Challenged Athletes Foundation, an organization that not only provides running legs for disabled athletes — it provides a pathway to a successful life. Second Chance at Life – At age 68, Larry Pontius had a life expectancy counted in single-digit days. Even the smallest things reminded him of his own mortality — commercials for a football season he might never see; pictures of places he might never get to visit. Then came a life-changing call.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming Episodes:

November 3: Little MiraclesThree Promises – One moment Carolyn and Chad Moor were celebrating their love. The next, he lay dying, the victim of a hit-and-run car accident. During their final moments, Carolyn made three promises that she’s spent many years and tears trying to keep. Hers is a story of Growing Bolder in the face of heartbreaking loss. See how she learned to live and even laugh again and how her story even caught the attention of Oprah Winfrey. Enjoying Life’s Little Miracles – She’s not really an athlete. She’s a retired biologist who loves adventure. That’s why 96-year-old Mary Anne Cooper traveled from British Columbia to Arizona to compete in the U.S. Masters Swimming National Championships. Mary Anne isn’t trying to be a role model or set an example, but with every stroke, she’s doing just that. She even inspired her 70-year-old daughter to also compete at Nationals. Free Throw King – Andy McGuffin is the best there is. Mr. Automatic. The Free Throw King once made 400 in a row. Bill Shafer goes one-on-one with Andy to learn the secrets to his success.

November 10: Head Of The PackFrom Mission Trips to Mission Statements – More and more Americans are taking a page from Paul Newman’s book and starting a social enterprise — a business you love as a means to helping others. After many mission trips, Jane Hursh felt obligated to share the blessings of her life. So she turned to a lifelong love — baking cookies. Now with her shortbread, biscotti and granola, Jane is using something sweet to change bitter circumstances. 97 Years of Saving Lives – At the time, it was just a simple, selfless act. The right thing to do. Seventy years later, a young Army captain’s good idea is responsible for saving countless lives. It was just one incident in the long, rewarding life of Dr. Norman Wall, who is one of the most compelling, relevant and fascinating 97-year-olds on the planet. Soaring to New Heights – The best glider pilots in North America over the age of 55 recently gathered to compete in the Senior Soaring National Championships. Former fighter pilots and commercial airline pilots call soaring the greatest test of all. How can a 2,000 pound plane with no engine stay aloft for hours flying at 65 miles per hour? Growing Bolder stopped by the final practice round to find out.

November 17: Find Your Fans
Why Red Green is White Hot – “The Red Green Show” was one of the longest running series on television. But, years after ending production, the world’s most inventive handyman is still in demand! We caught up with Steve Smith as he embarks on the Wit and Wisdom Tour to find out what makes Red one of TV’s most endearing characters. Ann’s Fans – With all due respect to the dozen former Olympians and more than 1,000 other competitors, the swimmer with the largest and loudest fan support at the U.S. Masters Swimming national championships was a 71-year-old woman from Minnesota named Ann. What’s her story? Find out how she’s inspiring everyone who meets her to keep chasing dreams and to never, ever give up. The Story of Ruth: An Amazing Life – It’s hard to say that a 109-year-old died too soon. But Ruth Hamilton led a full and amazing life. She was simply amazing. Just some of the highlights, she was married to a Major League Baseball player, she was one of the first women to host a radio show, in 1937 she came face to face with Hitler and tried to warn the world, she was the first woman elected to the Legislature from New Hampshire, and those are just a few of the things that made Ruth a national treasure.

November 24: Boomer Babes
Big River Man – The world’s most prolific endurance swimmer is 53-year-old Martin Strel, a man you’ve probably never heard of. Strel once swam for 84 hours non-stop covering miles 313 miles in the Danube River. His most famous swim is the entire length of the Amazon — the largest, longest and the most dangerous river in the world. Strel swam 3,278 miles in 66 days through waters that are home to bull sharks, piranha, stingrays, anacondas, electric eels, crocodiles, poisonous snakes and giant catfish that have been known to swallow dogs and children. Old Dogs Can Rock – Mickey Carroll has quite a unique approach to music these days. Back in the 1950s, when he released his first record, being a star was all about ego. And he had reasons to have an ego. He was one half of the doo-wop duo Billy and Mickey, the first white duo to be played on black radio. Now 70, Mickey says he’s found a more rewarding role — musical community activist. Find out what that is and how he’s making a difference in many lives in his community. Boomer Babes – They say the view is better when you’re the lead dog. That’s one reason why more and more women aren’t satisfied with just being a passenger on a motorcycle. They want control, and they’re getting it.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming Episodes:

October 6: Fun And Funky
A Mom Who Walks On Water – As a teen, Karen Putz lost her hearing while barefoot water skiing. More than 25 years passed, but her desire to get back on her feet kept burning within. Some family members told her she was too old. But Karen had rediscovered her passion. Keep on Rocking – Meet the Bats, a popular Kentucky group that regularly sells out its gigs and always leaves the audience laughing. See why they’re inspired to keep on rocking the stage, even if they still have day jobs. This WASP Still Stings – Betty Wall Strohfus was one of a handful of female pilots in World War II. After the war, she thought that part of her life was over. She was in her 70s when she felt compelled to honor her fellow WASPs by telling her story. Now at 91, she’s more proud and passionate than ever, and she’s one of the feistiest people you’ll ever meet!

October 13: Better Together
One Lap at a Time – Susan Helmrich is one of the best swimmers in the world in her age group. She’s also a three-time cancer survivor and a victim of one of the greatest drug tragedies in history. With luck, determination, great medical care, the support of family and friends and the benefits of the sport of swimming, Susan has fought to escape the deadly legacy of a supposed wonder drug turned nightmare. Meet the Hornman! – Bill Nemoyten was a music educator for most of his life. So why would that change when he retired? Instead, he bought an RV, packed up his wife and his collection of 16 different types of horns and set out from his home in the San Francisco Bay Area on a never-ending mission to share his passion for horns with anyone who will listen. Now, he is known far and wide as… The Hornman! The Couple That Sweats Together Stays Together – Triathlons are hard enough, but imagine competing against your spouse! Carol and Joe Neal recently celebrated their 40th anniversary, and their relationship is as strong as their bodies.

October 20: Still Having Fun
Orleans: They’re Still Having Fun – Think you know music? Who sang “Still the One,” “Dance With Me” and “Love Takes Time?” Orleans was the band, but who was the singer? Leave it to Growing Bolder to introduce you to one of the most recognized voices but least-known names in music. In for the Long Haul – Siphiwe Baleka is a one-of-a-kind Yale graduating, globetrotting, God-fearing, truck-driving, fast-swimming family man. And he’s got a new mission — to help long-haul truckers everywhere improve their health, fitness and quality of life. Conversations of a Lifetime – We all have a tale to tell, and that’s the premise of NPR’s Story Corps. We take you inside an amped up Airstream that’s a one-of-a-kind time capsule and it’s helping people across the U.S. leave a priceless legacy for future generations.

October 27: A Beautiful View
Finding His Purpose Late in Life – Artist Robert Sutz is a messenger for beautiful people filled with horrific memories. Sutz, 82, is creating what he calls irrefutable evidence of one of the darkest chapters in human history — the Holocaust. He calls it proof for those who don’t believe and a painful reminder to those who might forget. Life From the View of a Canoe – Rod Price was a successful businessman, but he wasn’t happy. Then he discovered his passion in the grueling endurance sport of Adventure Canoeing. Now, more than 200 wins later, he has rediscovered his zest for life, and at 51, he has never been happier. King of the Road – An unlikely corporate icon, Bruce Rossmeyer parlayed street smarts and a willingness to gamble into a major business empire. In a GB exclusive, we visited Rossmeyer shortly before his tragic death and found a man motivated not by money, but by fun.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming Episodes:

September 1:Dreams Never Die
Field of Dreams – John Wilson’s story is straight out of Hollywood. It’s a story of personal redemption and hope for us all; a story of struggle and triumph played out in jails, hospitals and finally — on a baseball field. Tubes, Transformers and Tragedy – If you have a vintage radio or know anyone who does you’ll be thankful for Dennis G. Williams. He is one of a very few people you can turn to for expert, full-time antique radio repair and restoration. He has four decades of experience at his craft and his business, Radio Relics has a reputation for quality, honesty and integrity that spreads clear across the country. The only thing more interesting than what he does for a living, is who he is as a person. Growing “Bull”der – They’ve retired from the rodeo, but these two brothers are still, well, bullish, when it comes to how great life can be as you get older. Just don’t mess with their bodyguard. Calendars for a Cause – They’re bold, they’re beautiful — and they’re breast cancer survivors. Now, these women are glamming it up and saluting the stars of the silver screen. It’s art for a good cause, and they think you’ll never look at a calendar the same way again.

September 8: No Strings Attached
No Strings Attached? – Musicians strive for perfection. That means their instruments must be flawless. But good luthiers are very hard to find. See what makes Saul Cornell the most important member of any string section, even though he doesn’t play a note. International Celebrity: Rachel Veitch – “How’s Rachel? Is Chariot Still Running?” We get the questions daily. Rachel, of course, is Rachel Veitch, the hard-driving, gun-toting, America-loving nonagenarian who became an international celebrity after we told her story. How’s she doing? For starters, she’s a little nervous to have Marc behind the wheel of her beloved Chariot. But she’s also getting ready for a little body work of her own. She shares her busy plans for the coming months (you could say she’s on a bit of a media blitz) and she answers the question everyone wants to know: how many miles are on Chariot now? Skydivers Over Sixty Smash World Record – Growing Bolder is something anyone can do. Knitters. Dancers. Writers. Painters. Entrepreneurs. This is how skydivers do it. It’s one of the most inspiring, empowering and unforgettable world records ever, and only Growing Bolder was there to document it.

September 15: Don’t Stop Believing
Food and Family – Isabella Morgia di Vicari has two passions — food and family. They’ve always been her recipe for happiness. When Isabella had a midlife crisis, she didn’t come out swinging — she came out cooking. *Miss Matchmaker – Driven by a fear of failure, Michelle Valentine learned to light the spark of passion, not just in herself, but in others as well. Her success in creating a world-class dating service helped her to a clear understanding of how to help others build powerful relationships of all kinds. Don’t Stop Believin’ – The recession has led to difficult times for a lot of people, including 48-year-old Don Cupo. A year ago, he had lost his job and his optimism. But then he decided to take action and a leap of faith. He enrolled at the nation’s second largest university to pursue his passion — film and music. And since he was already being bold, he decided to chase another dream. He tried out for and made the marching band. Now he’s pushing himself in ways he never thought possible, and he’s got a message for anyone who’s lost hope — don’t stop believing. Taking the Plunge – More times than not, the one thing that gets in the way of trying something new is fear! What if there was a way to eliminate it? Would you be willing to try something like scuba diving? Find out how taking risks in life can bring you more rewards than you imagined.

September 22: Making Memories
The Faces That Made Norman Rockwell Famous – Norman Rockwell was our nation’s most beloved artist. He had always used professional models until he moved next door to the Edgerton family. Their faces are immortalized in some of the artist’s most beloved works. Inside the Folk Den – Since 1995, Byrds founder Roger McGuinn has worked to keep the legacy of American folk music alive. Every month, he records a song for his Grammy-nominated Folk Den project. This is an exclusive inside look. Clothes That Never Go Out of Fashion – They say if you hold onto clothes long enough, they’ll be back in fashion. But some of the really trendy stuff is hot for one season and never heard from again. And then there are the classics. As a young woman 40 years ago, Joan DesCombes bought clothes from one of the hottest designers in the world, and those outfits still hang in her closet today. She recently shared her stunning collection of vintage Yves Saint Laurent fashions to prove that some pieces — and looks — are made to stand the test of time.

September 29: Pursuit of Passion
The Purpose and Beauty of Birds of Prey – They are two of the most under-appreciated groups around — birds of prey and the people who dedicate their lives to helping them. Find out what made Carol McCorkle and her husband change careers to educate us on the plight of raptors, and see how their Avian Reconditioning Center has become a big part of their outreach. The Power of Persistence – It’s the definitive American success story. See a need, fill it and make millions. Of course, it’s never that easy. But it can be done. Patrick Gottsch is living proof. Eight years of having doors slammed in his face didn’t keep this former farmer from building a global media network. The Sky’s the Limit – What would you do if you had all the money in the world and a whole lifetime to spend it? Kermit Weeks realized early on that for him, the sky’s the limit. Literally. He now owns the largest private airplane collection in the world. But it wasn’t until recently that he realized the planes were just a vehicle to help him reach his true destiny.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming Episodes:

August 4: Mind Over Matter
Family, Friends and Pancakes – We spend our days talking to or in search of ordinary people living extraordinary lives. And what we’ve learned is that anyone can do it. All it takes is passion. And the best thing about passion is that it’s contagious. Dr. Jack Beattie has it. And his family and friends have caught it. Mind Over Matter – Jennifer Field was 17 when a car accident left her comatose with a severe brain injury. Few expected her to survive. But she did. Fewer expected any kind of recovery. And it HAS been a battle, step by agonizing step, for nearly 20 years. Now, she travels the country, performing a one-woman show, re-living her story so that others who’ve suffered traumatic brain injuries never lose hope.

August 11: Quiet Confidence
Discover Your Inner Sex Symbol – The expression “less is more” has never been more true. Women are taking it off, to turn it back on! Boudoir photography is hot, in more ways that one! And it’s not just those young, skinny 20-somethings, it’s women in mid-life and beyond who are giving their all, well, just about, to prove that age is irrelevant! Celebrating 50 Years of Skydiving History – On August 16, 1960, Air Force Capt. Joe Kittinger rode a helium balloon to 102,800 feet — the very edge of space — and jumped. Fifty years later, to commemorate man’s longest leap, Kittinger became the first inductee into the National Skydiving Museum Hall of Fame.

August 18: No Limits
How World Records are Broken – Motivated by the stories we do every week, Growing Bolder CEO Marc Middleton got back in the pool for the first time in 35 years. That was two years ago. Today, Marc is a member of Rowdy Gaines’ Blu Frog Masters Team and now, the Froggers have something to croak about. World War II’s Fading Memories – There aren’t many people like Bill Coleman. There used to be, but World War II vets are vanishing. It’s why their stories are so important. Not just for their first-hand accounts, but also to ensure the lessons they learned don’t just fade into history.

August 25: Small Actions: Big Impact
Hey, Your Nose is Growing! – There are very few full-time marionette theaters in the country. One of them, Pinocchio’s Marionette Theater near Orlando, Florida, is dedicated to keeping the vanishing art alive. See why they believe puppetry is not only still relevant but even more necessary in these high-tech times. Andy’s New Bike – Andy was born with fetal alcohol syndrome 40 years ago. His adoptive and loving parents have always encouraged him to get involved in life and he has. He has a job, a lot of friends and gets all around town on his beloved bicycle. So, imagine his despair when it was stolen. And imagine his surprise when the very people he thought were a nuisance turned out to be some of the best friends he ever had.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming episodes:

July 7: Discover Your Future
Discovery of a Lifetime – Joanie Schirm always knew there was more to her family history than what she had learned from her parents. When they passed away, she made a remarkable discovery in an old desk. It was a discovery that sent her on the adventure of a lifetime revealing a world of survival, loss and suffering during World War II. A 5-Minute Masterpiece – Brian Olsen is as much a work of art as his pop culture portraits. He’s a blur of brushes, hands, color and energy. There’s only been one other like him. But his mentor’s untimely death sent Brian on a profound journey to inspire others to find outlets for creativity and self-expression.

July 14: Famous Footsteps
Paul and McCartney and Me – A lot of people love the Beatles, but how many have ever performed as one? Or ever recorded at Abbey Road Studios? Or toured with the cast of Beatlemania. Perhaps the only person in the world who has done it all, is John Babcock! It’s a love affair that began at age five when he was one of the millions who first saw the Fab Four on the Ed Sullivan Show.

July 21: Living in Harmony
Creating a Life of Exquisite Harmony – Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson’s artwork is bright, cheerful, and whimsical, much like the artist herself. It consists of pieces of paper ripped apart and then reassembled into something more beautiful and more profound. Songs of a Lifetime – His journey has been a fascinating trip through an amazing era of music. Bob Rafkin was one of the musicians drawn to the Greenwich Village scene in the ’60s. He’s spent his career helping record the music of others, but after illness forced him to face his own mortality he’s found a passion for creating music of his own.

July 28: Unforgettable and Inspirational
The Mushroom Man – Many people are interested in photography. Some specialize in portraits, others landscapes. Taylor Lockwood specializes in — are you ready for this? — mushrooms! His hope is once you see his work you’ll not only understand why, but that you’ll see fungi in a whole new light. ucky’s “Jaws” Swim – Da-Dum. Da-da-Da-Dum. In the summer of 1975, the movie “JAWS” terrorized nearly everyone who saw it. Dr. Lucky Meisenheimer is finally ready to conquer his fear. And he wants company.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming episodes:

5/5: “Little Miracles“
See how Carolyn Moor learned to live and even laugh again after her partner, Chad Moor, was a victim of a hit-and-run car accident; 96-year-old Mary Anne Cooper traveled from British Columbia to Arizona to compete in the U.S. Masters Swimming National Championships. Mary Anne isn’t trying to be a role model or set an example, but with every stroke, she’s doing just that; Andy McGuffin is known as “The Free Throw King” and once made 400 in a row. Bill Shafer goes one-on-one with Andy to learn the secrets to his success.

5/12: “Head Of The Pack“
After many mission trips, Jane Hursh felt obligated to share the blessings of her life. So she turned to the lifelong love of baking cookies and is using something sweet to change bitter circumstances; Learn why a young Army captain’s good idea is responsible for saving countless lives with Dr. Norman Wall, who is one of the most compelling, relevant and fascinating 97-year-olds on the planet; The best glider pilots in North America over the age of 55 recently gathered to compete in the Senior Soaring National Championships. Growing Bolder stopped finds out how a 2,000 pound plane with no engine stay aloft for hours flying at 65 miles per hour.

5/19: “Find Your Fans“
“The Red Green Show” was one of the longest running series on television. But, years after ending production, the world’s most inventive handyman is still in demand; Find out how a 71-year-old swimmer from Minnesota named Ann inspires everyone who meets her to keep chasing dreams and to never, ever give up. Discover how Ruth Hamilton led a full and amazing life by being married to a Major League Baseball player, becoming one of the first women to host a radio show, and much more.

5/26: “Boomer Babes”
The world’s most prolific endurance swimmer is 53-year-old Martin Strel and his most famous swim is the entire length of the Amazon. Strel swam 3,278 miles in 66 days through waters that are home to bull sharks, piranha, stingrays, any many more dangerous sea creatures; Mickey Carroll was one half of the doo-wop duo Billy and Mickey, the first white duo to be played on black radio. Now 70, Mickey says he’s found a more rewarding role in being a musical community activist; They say the view is better when you’re the lead dog. That’s one reason why more and more women aren’t satisfied with just being a passenger on a motorcycle. They want control, and they’re getting it.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming episodes:

2/3: “Mind Over Matter”
Family, Friends and Pancakes – We spend our days talking to or in search of ordinary people living extraordinary lives. And what we’ve learned is that anyone can do it. All it takes is passion. And the best thing about passion is that it’s contagious. Dr. Jack Beattie has it. And his family and friends have caught it. Mind Over Matter – Jennifer Field was 17 when a car accident left her comatose with a severe brain injury. Few expected her to survive. But she did. Fewer expected any kind of recovery. And it HAS been a battle, step by agonizing step, for nearly 20 years. Now, she travels the country, performing a one-woman show, re-living her story so that others who’ve suffered traumatic brain injuries never lose hope. The Veterans of Motocross – It’s the ultimate motorized highwire act, requiring lightning-fast reflexes, incredible strength and stamina, and nerves of steel. For decades, motocross has been a young man’s extreme sport. It’s still extreme, but suddenly there’s gray hair everywhere. How Tuppperware Helped Women Grow Bolder – The plastic bowl with the airtight seal helped transform American society and advance the women’s movement worldwide. Today, a Tupperware party is held every 2. 5 seconds. Women go home with new containers and a new dream for a better future. Most likely, none of it would have happened if it wasn’t for a man named Gary McDonald.

2/10: “Quiet Confidence”
Discover Your Inner Sex Symbol – The expression “less is more” has never been more true. Women are taking it off, to turn it back on! Boudoir photography is hot, in more ways that one! And it’s not just those young, skinny 20-somethings, it’s women in mid-life and beyond who are giving their all, well, just about, to prove that age is irrelevant! Celebrating 50 Years of Skydiving History – On August 16, 1960, Air Force Capt. Joe Kittinger rode a helium balloon to 102,800 feet — the very edge of space — and jumped. Fifty years later, to commemorate man’s longest leap, Kittinger became the first inductee into the National Skydiving Museum Hall of Fame. Tracing Your Family Tree – Ever wonder where you came from? Digging up your family tree’s roots can help you see a more clear future. We’ll take a look at how technology is making it easier than ever to find out who you really are! Bobby Goldsboro: Musical Colors – In 1968 while Joplin, Hendrix, the Doors and Jefferson Airplane were singing about sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll, Bobby Goldsboro was singing about “Honey.” After a career in which he sold more than 35 million records, hosted a national TV show, wrote six best-selling children’s books and produced a national PBS show, you’d think the soon-to-be 70 Goldsboro would be winding down. Think again.

2/17: “No Limits”
How World Records are Broken – Motivated by the stories we do every week, Growing Bolder CEO Marc Middleton got back in the pool for the first time in 35 years. That was two years ago. Today, Marc is a member of Rowdy Gaines’ Blu Frog Masters Team and now, the Froggers have something to croak about. World War II’s Fading Memories – There aren’t many people like Bill Coleman. There used to be, but World War II vets are vanishing. It’s why their stories are so important. Not just for their first-hand accounts, but also to ensure the lessons they learned don’t just fade into history. Come Play With Us – From fast cars to talking water — yes, you read that right — we’re showing you the coolest new games and rides at the annual International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions expo. You won’t see this stuff anywhere else … yet! Triathlete Tony Handler Tony Handler isn’t supposed to be here. Twenty-five years ago, he was diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer and given two years to live. That same year, he completed his first triathlon. After that, the cancer attacked his liver, prostate and thyroid glands but he’s beat them all back. His story will inspire you to keep on fighting, no matter what life throws your way.

2/24: “Small Actions, Big Impact”Restore Your Passion and Pass it On – The mission was gratifying yet overwhelming. But isn’t taking on projects that are way too big the key to great accomplishment? JT Thompson had such a bright vision for an old, run-down historic home that he never had time to consider failure. And against all odds, he far exceeded even his own expectations. Be the Maestro of Your Mind – It may be music to your ears but it’s actually fuel for your brain. Many studies concur — one of the best ways to exercise your brain is by learning to play a musical instrument. As you’ll see, you don’t have to be Mozart to be the maestro of your mind!

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming episodes:

1/6: “Discover Your Future”
Discovery of a Lifetime – Joanie Schirm always knew there was more to her family history than what she had learned from her parents. When they passed away, she made a remarkable discovery in an old desk. It was a discovery that sent her on the adventure of a lifetime revealing a world of survival, loss and suffering during World War II. A 5-Minute Masterpiece – Brian Olsen is as much a work of art as his pop culture portraits. He’s a blur of brushes, hands, color and energy. There’s only been one other like him. But his mentor’s untimely death sent Brian on a profound journey to inspire others to find outlets for creativity and self-expression. Welcome, Wendy Chioji – A television anchor, breast cancer survivor and competitive athlete, Wendy Chioji has traveled the world and collected stories from people of all walks of life. As she joins the Growing Bolder team, we take a look at what makes Wendy such a Growing Bolder story herself!

1/13: “Famous Footsteps”
Paul and McCartney and Me – A lot of people love the Beatles, but how many have ever performed as one? Or ever recorded at Abbey Road Studios? Or toured with the cast of Beatlemania. Perhaps the only person in the world who has done it all, is John Babcock! It’s a love affair that began at age five when he was one of the millions who first saw the Fab Four on the Ed Sullivan Show. Six Bullets to the Chest – James O’Connor was not standing at the proverbial crossroads. He was lying there. On a gurney. With six bullets in his chest. On what could have been his deathbed, James was overcome with a single thought, “We’re born to be alive, so we should live.” And so he did. The Boomer Fountain of Youth – Remember when Biketoberfest was for the young and wild? It’s still pretty wild, but the average age will surprise you. More than 200,000 make the annual ride to Daytona Beach, Florida. They come to see the bikes, but often discover the bikers are far more interesting! Wearing a Dream for All to See – Her life was fine the way it was, except for one thing — she had long dreamed of doing something else. So, Diane Shelton gathered up the courage and took a huge chance, never realizing that by creating a whole new cultural clothing business she’d also be creating a new passion for life!

1/20: “Living in Harmony”
Creating a Life of Exquisite Harmony – Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson’s artwork is bright, cheerful, and whimsical, much like the artist herself. It consists of pieces of paper ripped apart and then reassembled into something more beautiful and more profound. Songs of a Lifetime – His journey has been a fascinating trip through an amazing era of music. Bob Rafkin was one of the musicians drawn to the Greenwich Village scene in the ’60s. He’s spent his career helping record the music of others, but after illness forced him to face his own mortality he’s found a passion for creating music of his own. Fantasy, Fiction and Fun! – Science fiction is not only alive and well, thanks to some out of this world gatherings and conventions, it’s getting bigger all the time. Put on your Vulcan ears and your Ewok costume and come with us to FX International, a sci-fi show that has it all! Little Horses, Big Hearts – Imagine if a horse could walk right in to a hospice center, a children’s hospital or a rehab facility. They can when they’re less than 30-inches tall! Watch as the Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses provide rare moments of relief and happiness for those facing challenges.

1/27: “Unforgettable and Inspirational”
The Mushroom Man – Many people are interested in photography. Some specialize in portraits, others landscapes. Taylor Lockwood specializes in — are you ready for this? — mushrooms! His hope is once you see his work you’ll not only understand why, but that you’ll see fungi in a whole new light. Lucky’s “Jaws” Swim – Da-Dum. Da-da-Da-Dum. In the summer of 1975, the movie “JAWS” terrorized nearly everyone who saw it. Dr. Lucky Meisenheimer is finally ready to conquer his fear. And he wants company. Da-Dum. Da-da-Da-Dum. Silver Stars – Are you ready to move your body? Meet the Orlando Magic Silver Stars, a group of 50+ dancers who shake their things in front of huge NBA crowds. Find out why they do it and how they got up the courage to shine! Cycling Star – Marty Jemison is an internationally-known cyclist who has competed at not one but two Tour de France events. These days, he’s paying it forward by taking everyone from weekend enthusiasts and potential champions under his wing. Hit the road with the cycling star.

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. Our newest effort is a national collaboration called Next Avenue that features resources and an online discussion of issues facing those 50+. As part of that project we are also airing, Growing Bolder Sundays at 10:30 am on KLRU. Growing Bolder delivers empowering stories that inspire audiences of all ages to believe that it’s never too late to achieve their dreams. It features stories of masters athletes, cancer survivors, musicians, health experts, entrepreneurs and more.

Upcoming episodes:

12/2: “On A Mission”
The Father of Juicing Fights Back – He’s 87, still vibrant and still on a mission. Just don’t call Jay Kordich the Juiceman anymore. A legal battle took the name from him but not his spirit or his conviction. He believes raw juices saved his life more than 60 years ago. See why he’s been shouting it to the world ever since. Life Lessons From Coach Bill – Growing Bolder Vice President Bill Shafer spends his days guiding the GB team and his nights and weekends molding lives on his son’s youth hockey team. We followed Coach Bill and his team as they battled for a spot in their league’s championship and discovered what they learned off the ice may be more important than any final score at the rink. Man on a Mission – Mr. Bill is on a very serious crusade; to improve the lives of families in need. His job at the Second Harvest Food Bank in Orlando, Florida, is often back-breaking work, but Mr. Bill does it all with a smile. Hear what keeps him going.

12/9: “True Grit”
What’s SUP? – We had to know what’s SUP after receiving an email that read, “At 46 years old, I took a BOLD move, quit my 19+ year safe and secure job with the Florida Lottery and started living my dream.” That got our attention. We had to know more. We found a family living their dreams and helping others discover a new FUN way of exercising — at any age. Eclectic Collector – Everybody likes to collect things, but what if those things get out of hand? What if they take over everything? Audrey Lentz has always had an eye for things that please her. From Howdy Doody to the present day, from pinball to pez, she has an amazing collection. But what sets her apart is, her home… her ENTIRE home is her display case! True Grit – From the outside looking in, Tom Ross has it all — a high-powered job, Broadway plays in New York and downhill runs in Utah. From the inside looking out, the view is much different. When he came to a crossroads in life, he chose to start growing bolder.

12/16: “Gospel of Good”
From Broadway to Busts – Lawrence Holofcener wrote for Sid Caesar’s “Your Show of Shows,” Sammy Davis Jr. and Merv Griffin. After becoming one of the top songwriters around, he decided to walk away and take another risk — he wanted to be an actor. Not only did he become an actor, he made his debut on Broadway in “Stop the World, I Want to Get Off.” He even went on to star in “Hello, Dolly!” with Carol Channing and in “Fiddler on the Roof.” Now, at the age of 85, he’s a respected painter and sculptor. One of his most famous pieces is a tourist destination in London. He’s used two simple words to guide him through his amazing life: why not? Gospel of Good – With the daily news filled with stories of unethical businessmen and out-of-control corporate greed, we’re happy to shine the light on a Fortune 500 company and a retired CEO who are proving that giving back is the best way to move forward. The Most Vibrant 107-Year-Old in the World – At 107, Wilhelmina Hoorn raises the bar of what’s possible to a whole new level! Come celebrate her birthday with a woman who has lived around the world and seen great hardships and great joy. Plus, her birthday is made even more special by the fact that she gets to celebrate it with five generations of her family, including her three feisty daughters — all in their 80s themselves.

12/23: “Born To Dance”
With the Greatest of Ease – 67-Year-Old Joe Johnston is a champion at track and field, and the pole vault is his specialty. He flies through the air with the greatest of ease, but he’s no circus performer. Joe says he has the secret to life, and he’s sharing it with Growing Bolder. So She Thought She Could Dance – Thanks to the popularity of dance shows on network TV, dance studios around the country are busier than they’ve been in decades. Many more people would love to take lessons but worry about embarrassing themselves. By all accounts, Quin Bommelje was so bad when she first started, her teacher and even her husband couldn’t bear to watch. She had a hard time to keeping time to the beat. Now, her younger dance partner has a hard time keeping up with her! Final Resting Place – It’s art. It’s a memorial. It’s grandma’s cremated remains! We’re all about living and normally wouldn’t cover the National Funeral Directors Convention, but we heard the industry is changing rapidly. We promise, this story isn’t depressing. A little weird? Yeah, we’ll give you that. From launching your loved one’s ashes into space to tucking them into the barrel of a hunting fan’s shotgun, we’ll give you unusual ideas for a final resting place.

12/30: “Take Second Chances”
Famous Face – His life was one of abuse and rejection. The more he suffered, the stronger his resolve. No one believed in him, until a chance meeting with a fledgling talk show host changed everything. Now, after 20 years as Oprah Winfrey’s personal makeup artist, Reggie Wells is set to soar. Roderick Sewell – Just a few years ago, Roderick Sewell was a homeless teenager with no legs who was failing school. Today, he’s a world-class athlete, attends college and he’s set his sights on a big goal — making the Paralympics team. His life started turning around when he got involved with the Challenged Athletes Foundation, an organization that not only provides running legs for disabled athletes — it provides a pathway to a successful life. Second Chance at Life – At age 68, Larry Pontius had a life expectancy counted in single-digit days. Even the smallest things reminded him of his own mortality — commercials for a football season he might never see; pictures of places he might never get to visit. Then came a life-changing call.